Medicinal Licorice: Ancient Root with Modern Health Benefits

The licorice plant originates from the Mediterranean and Western Asian regions, having been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Traditional Chinese medicine has long utilized licorice root to treat various lments such as gastrointestinal issues, malaria, insomnia, infections among others.

Licorice root is widely known for its use as a natural sweetener in beverages, candies, and medicines due to its 50 times sweeter potency compared to sugar but comes with health benefits that sugar lacks. Comprising over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids, licorice root contns Glycyrrhizin which is the most potent component studied for medicinal use.

Glycyrrhizin has been proven to offer several health benefits such as treating and preventing ulcers by increasing mucus production in the stomach, soothing the lining of the stomach and enhancing blood supply that facilitates healing. It also prevents ulcer formation through suppression of gastrin production which stimulates gastric acid secretion leading to ulcers.

Research indicates licorice root holds potential for cancer treatment purposes with studies showing it can inhibit the growth of stomach cancer and leukemia cells by inducing cell death or apoptosis. The glycyrrhetinic acid, part of Glycyrrhizin, has been found to slow down viral replication and hinder bacterial growth offering antiviral and antibacterial benefits agnst several microbes including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Candida albicans along with viruses like herpes simplex virus type 1 HSV-1, respiratory syncytial virus HRSV and immunodeficiency virus HIV.

Licorice root also shows promise in managing cardiovascular diseases by reducing blood pressure. It reduces the activity of aldosterone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body leading to a decrease in fluid retention, thereby lowering blood volume and tension.

There is no recommed dly dosage for licorice root supplementation; however, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen as over consumption could lead to adverse effects like hypertension or kidney damage. Licorice root can also be found in herbal teas and licorice-flavored candies but ensure you're choosing those that contn real licorice root extracts instead of artificial flavors.

Sources:

WebMD Slideshow: The Health Benefits of Watermelon August 31, 2024

WebMD Article: Health Benefits of Sea Moss November 01, 2023

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